Sunday, May 6, 2012

Tribute to a friend

This past Thursday, a godly lady I had the privilege of calling friend went to Heaven.

When hubby and I first began our missionary journey in Ukraine 10 years ago {long before this blog}, we had the joy and privilege of working alongside the Hudson family. Other missionary families later joined us, but for a couple of years, our two families worked together alone.

I have many joyous memories of our five years of partnering with the Hudsons... holidays shared, ministry opportunities, family outings..., before the Lord led us to move 12 hours south of them, to the southern region of Ukraine. During our time with them, it was a pleasure to move out to a village to help them start a brand new work, which continues today under Matt Hudson's pastoral leadership.

Just two months ago, one week prior to the Hudson's return to Ukraine after a furlough in America, Catherine was diagnosed with Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, which metastasized and moved to her liver. Chemotherapy was started immediately, but complications of double pneumonia took her life just 8 weeks later.

I looked up to Catherine with respect and admiration for her love and devotion to her husband, children, and ministry. Most importantly, she had an obvious love and devotion to the Lord which were an encouragement and example to me.

I realize that I was one of few people who saw Catherine live and work on the mission field. As a witness of her dedication, I can confidently tell you that she was the epitome of an ideal Proverbs 31 lady. She sweetly and lovingly carried out her daily responsibilities, even when life was not always comfortable in a third-world country.

My heart goes out to Matt and their three children Daniel (age 16), Rachel (age 13), and Deborah (age 11). Their loss is deep, as Catherine was a rare treasure.

May the hope of Heaven sustain Catherine's family during their painful days ahead and may Christ's love embrace them when they need it the most.

What a beautiful tribute to Catherine. We have been praying as a church for her and her family and now beseeching the Lord on behalf of her precious family. John 14:1-3 are precious words at this time. Praying all is well with you and your family. I have been enjoying David's emails about Israel. Longing to see you again.Love to you,Vicki

Thank you for the beautiful tribute – an amazing honor to Catherine and her faithful testimony. I just talked to Bro. Ross a few minutes ago…………praying so much for their family. Love you! Thankful for you – too!! You’re such an example to me!! Love you – friend.

Saw your brother tonight, David, at our college baccalaureate. The one who pastors in NM--Joel, I think? Was nice to meet him. I'm so sorry about your friend. We know not what a day may bring forth, do we? Praying for her family. Love you all.

it sure is sad....I'm gonna miss Ms. Catherine <3 And we had just seen her shortly before she died!!! and it seemed like she was in the perfect picture of health...yet none of us knew at the time that anything was going on.....that anything was wrong.... <3 I'm glad that she is with the Lord now, though. I wonder what it's like (: <3